AASHTO Journal - Florida Issues Updates on Key Infrastructure Projects

Governor Ron DeSantis (R) (above) recently highlighted the completion of the Howard Frankland Bridge replacement project and the groundbreaking on the I-275 Express Lane Expansion project; both located in the Tampa Bay area.

[Above photo via the Florida Governor’s Office]

Together, those projects – part of the state’s Moving Florida Forward infrastructure initiative – represent more than $1.3 billion in investments to reduce traffic congestion, strengthen hurricane evacuation routes, and improve mobility for families and businesses across the Tampa Bay region.

Launched in 2023, the Moving Florida Forward Initiative is accelerating more than 20 major congestion relief projects statewide, delivering improvements years ahead of schedule.

The governor noted that Florida has committed more than $68 billion to transportation improvements over the next five years, ensuring that the state’s infrastructure continues to meet the demands of residents, visitors, and business alike.

Howard Franklin Bridge. Image via Florida DOT.

“Our Moving Florida Forward Initiative is delivering major improvements years ahead of schedule, reducing delays for families and businesses and making long-term investments that will support Florida’s growth for generations to come,” Gov. DeSantis said in a statement.

He added that the new Howard Frankland Bridge – opened to traffic earlier this summer – has increased traffic capacity by 50 percent, has been fortified to withstand hurricanes, and ties directly into the recently completed Gateway Expressway and I-275 Express project.

Meanwhile, groundbreaking on the I-275 expansion project in Pinellas County will widen I-275, add new express lanes, and flow into the new Howard Frankland Bridge.

Once completed – which is expected to occur 15 years ahead of schedule – the expansion of I-275 should reduce travel delays by up to 85 percent and generate more than $1.4 billion in regional economic value, while ensuring I-275 remains a vital hurricane evacuation corridor.

“[The] Moving Florida Forward Initiative is transforming Tampa Bay’s transportation system and connecting communities,” noted Jared Perdue, secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation. “I’m proud of the work of our Florida DOT team who is making quick work of the demolition of the old Howard Frankland Bridge and beginning construction of the much-needed expansion of I-275 in Pinellas County.”